We have different goals, varying likes and dislikes, and decidedly personal opinions of what is right for each of us. Some of us feel that the breast reconstruction journey is well worth the effort, and that is just fine. Others consider it a risky waste of time and effort, and that is also fine, because what is right for one isn’t necessarily right for all.

You may have many reasons why you don't want to have reconstruction:

Maybe you:• don’t consider a flat chest to be a significant change from your natural breasts• don’t want breasts that aren’t “real” and have little or no feeling• want the simplest and fastest recovery possible• don’t want to any additional surgery and further recovery• fear potential reconstructive complications or unsatisfactory results• want to try going flat before committing to reconstructive surgery• are unsure about reconstruction at the time of your mastectomy• have a health condition or pending treatment that precludes reconstruction• prefer to embrace your flat chest as a way of acknowledging your cancer experience

If you don't have immediate reconstruction, your surgeon will remove your breast tissue and excess breast skin, and close the incision flat against your chest. You can then go flat when you're clothed, or you can wear a prosthesis, a manufactured breast-shaped form that fits into your bra, swimwear, lingerie, or adheres to your chest.

You can still have breast reconstruction at any time in the future. The mastectomy scar, however, will remain on your new breast, although it will fade considerably in time.